SOVEREIGN NATION · FEDERALLY RESTORED 1990

Heritage. Sovereignty. Future.

Chief Standing Bear of the Ponca Tribe
Chief Standing Bear PONCA LEADER
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Discover Our Nation

Stories of
Resilience

A living nation shaped by history, sustained by culture, and driven toward a sovereign future for generations to come.

The Trial of Standing Bear 01 Landmark Case · 1879 The Trial of
Standing Bear The first Native American declared a "person" under US law — a moment that changed the course of history forever. Read the story Culture & Language 02 Living Heritage Culture &
Language Preserving our language, traditions, and customs for the next seven generations. Explore culture Annual Powwow 03 Gathering Annual Powwow A celebration of dance, song, and community. Learn more
6,000
Enrolled Members
15
County Service Area
1990
Year of Federal Restoration
3
States Served

Our Journey

Through the Centuries

Full History
1200

Ohio River Valley

The Ponca people live in the Ohio River valley, part of the Dhegihan Siouan migration. A rich culture of farming, hunting, and ceremony flourishes.

1804

Lewis & Clark Encounter

Lewis and Clark encounter the Ponca along Ponca Creek in Knox County, Nebraska. Population estimated at 800 after devastating smallpox epidemics.

1858

Treaty of 1858

The Ponca cede their homeland to the United States, retaining a small reservation along the Niobrara River in northeast Nebraska.

1877

Forced Removal

The US Government forcibly relocates the Ponca to Indian Territory in Oklahoma. Many die during the march. Despair grips the people.

1879

Standing Bear v. Crook

Chief Standing Bear wins a landmark federal case, becoming the first Native American declared a “person” under US law. A turning point in civil rights.

1966

Termination

The federal government terminates the Ponca Tribe. 442 members are removed from tribal rolls. All remaining land holdings are eliminated.

1990

Restoration

President George H.W. Bush signs the Ponca Restoration Act. After 24 years of termination, the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is restored to federal recognition.

Today

A Thriving Nation

Over 6,000 members strong, the Ponca Tribe delivers comprehensive services across 15 counties, preserving culture while building a sovereign future.

Latest Updates

News & Announcements

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Upcoming

Events & Gatherings

Full Calendar
OCT 01

Intertribal Youth Club

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Lincoln
OCT 01

Elders Healing Circle – Omaha

10:30 am – 3:00 pm Ralston
OCT 01

Weekly Elders Lunches – Norfolk

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Norfolk
OCT 01

Talking Circle – Omaha

6:00 pm Lincoln

Mission Statement

With culture at the core, the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska exemplifies excellence, sovereignty, and sustainability to serve our people, community, and protect our resources.
Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Tribal Leadership

Leadership

Tribal Council

Elected leaders serving the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska with integrity, cultural commitment, and a vision for seven generations.

meet all leaders

Candace Schmidt

Tribal Chair Person

Angie Starkel

Vice Chair, District 1 Representative

Shanna Carpenter

Secretary, District 3 Representative

Kyle Taylor

Treasurer, District 4 Representative

What We Provide

Member & Client Services

Comprehensive services supporting the health, education, and well-being of our members and citizens of other tribal nations across our 15-county service area.

Health Services

Medical, dental, behavioral health, diabetes prevention, and elder care programs across our service area.

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Education

Youth programs, scholarship assistance, cultural education, tutoring, and workforce development.

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Housing

NPHA housing programs providing safe, affordable homes for tribal members and families.

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Tribal Court

Exercising tribal sovereignty through our judicial system, law enforcement, and legal services.

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